Dan,
I have accumulated some information on the AVL LB engine, with an emphasis on how it differs from the Classic engine. I'm at work, but will post it asap when I get home.
The "Lean Burn" tag is enough to make anyone nervous.
However, in this case the design is equal to the name. Despite it's extremely lean (and 'corked up') condition, my stock engine broke in flawlessly. It idled smoothly, ran smoothly and started easily. Never so much as a misfire. This gave me a lot of confidence in the design.
The real beauty of this engine, though, is it's potential. When you pull off the restrictive intake and restricitve exhaust, and plop in a carb to match freer-flowing replacements - this engine ROARS! Mine is a bit loud with a Goldy-style muffler and Amal MK1 carb (with a K&N-like cone AF). But it cruises happily at an honest 60mph. I don't normally cruise that fast (usually I'm on 50-55mph roads) - but it's real nice to be able to do it when you want or need to. Even more, I can cruise a good 10-15 miles on the interstate at 65 mph and my Electra X handles it competently. In addition to the extra horses, you also get the benefit of the engine running cooler.
When in stock form my Electra X felt and sounded like a Honda 250 (almost electric-like). This is baaaaad for a thumper fan! (It didn't help that the overall size and weight were comparable to a Honda 250 as well!). The performance upgrades change all that. It now sounds and feels like a thumper and I couldn't be happier.
<INSERTED>
Well of course Murphy's law dictates that I cannot find my text file listing the differences between the Electra X and the classics...
Here's what I recall from memory:
Front disc brake
Electronic (CDI) ignition
- programmed to provide a longer spark for easy starting and to improve battery charging
AVL Lean Burn Engine
- Aluminum Head
- Increase in 1 HP
- new gear driven pump supplies more oil to the big end
- The big end itself has changed from a plain floating bearing to a much stronger full roller bearing
Different frame at rear fender
Different side panels
Gas shock absorbers
Higher gearing
<END INSERT>
Matt
RE Notes:
http://members.verizon.net/allofusmorrows/RE_Notes.htm